Robert A. Gibson
Booker T. Washington and W. E. B. DuBois represent the extremes in philosophical thought concerning the rights of Blacks in America following the period of Reconstruction. This unit concentrates on the backgrounds and positions of both men during the twenty years spanning 1895-1915. The central theme of the project is the debate between these two leaders: Washington, representing the philosophy of accommodation to white oppression; and DuBois, representing an emerging radical movement dedicated to equality (Civil Rights). The narrative contains the pertinent background information needed to teach the unit. Strategies are included in a section on utilization. A sequence of lessons as well as specific sample lessons, activities, and projects conclude the piece. The bibliography is divided into primary, secondary and student reference lists. The unit is designed for use with high school history students (grades 10-12) for two full weeks; it would also be a particularly significant addition to the curriculum in an Afro-American literature and culture elective.
(Recommended for High School U.S. History II; also appropriate for Afro-American electives).
Key Words
DuBois Politics Afro-Americans
